In what is being touted as the first gay-themed merchandise centered around a
television series, Showtime Networks Inc. Monday announced the licensing
strategy for its gay-and-lesbian-themed series, Queer as Folk.
In partnership with Los Angeles-based consumer-products company 10%
Productions, Showtime launched the new merchandise online at http://queer.sho.com.
Initial products include calendars, posters, magnets, coffee mugs and gift
bags. The show's costume designer, Patrick Antosh, also created a line of
exclusive T-shirts featuring sayings not likely to be portrayed on broadcast
TV.
Showtime said Monday that the merchandise would also be sold through
independent boutiques that cater to the gay and lesbian community, as well as
through national retailers including Barnes & Noble, Borders Book Group and
Calendar Club L.L.C.
